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Dictionary definition of maleficent

Characterized by harmful intent or the inclination to cause harm, suffering, or evil.
"The witch's maleficent curse caused the crops to wither and die."

Detailed meaning of maleficent

When something is labeled as maleficent, it suggests a deliberate and malevolent disposition toward causing negative consequences, often with ill will or malicious intent. This term can be applied to various contexts, such as maleficent actions undertaken by individuals, maleficent intentions in storytelling or mythology, or maleficent forces in the realm of fantasy or folklore. "Maleficent" underscores the idea of something or someone being fundamentally harmful or wicked, often serving as a source of conflict or adversity in narratives or real-life situations.

Example sentences of maleficent

1. The maleficent sorceress cast a spell on the kingdom, bringing darkness and chaos.
2. They warned of the maleficent intentions behind their neighbor's seemingly innocent actions.
3. The maleficent creature lurked in the shadows, waiting to unleash its terror.
4. The maleficent curse had a lasting impact on the village, causing misfortune to befall its residents.
5. Her maleficent gaze sent shivers down their spines, revealing her sinister nature.
6. They uncovered the maleficent plot to overthrow the king and disrupt the peaceful realm.

History and etymology of maleficent

The adjective 'maleficent' has its roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'maleficus,' which combines 'male,' meaning 'evil' or 'badly,' and 'ficus,' meaning 'making' or 'doing.' Therefore, 'maleficent' originally denoted someone or something that was 'doing evil' or 'making harm.' Over time, this term evolved to describe individuals or entities characterized by harmful intent or the inclination to cause harm, suffering, or evil. The etymology of 'maleficent' emphasizes the notion of actively engaging in evil or harmful actions, highlighting its association with malevolence and malicious intent.

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Further usage examples of maleficent

1. The maleficent enchantment trapped them in a world of perpetual nightmares.
2. His maleficent laughter echoed through the haunted mansion, sending chills down their spines.
3. The maleficent spirit haunted the old cemetery, bringing dread to anyone who ventured near.
4. They encountered a maleficent force that thrived on sowing discord and despair.
5. The maleficent powers of darkness sought to corrupt all that was pure and good.
6. Her maleficent reputation spread far and wide, instilling fear in the hearts of many.
7. They sought protection from the maleficent energy that permeated the cursed artifact.
8. The maleficent influence poisoned their minds, turning them against one another.
9. The maleficent entity fed on fear, growing stronger with each victim it claimed.
10. They uncovered the maleficent secrets hidden within the forbidden tome.
11. The maleficent presence cast a pall of gloom over the once vibrant town.
12. They confronted the maleficent figure, determined to put an end to its reign of terror.
13. The maleficent aura surrounding the abandoned castle deterred all who dared to enter.
14. They summoned their inner strength to combat the maleficent forces threatening their world.